CBI deputy director-general announced

Ms Hall will be promoted from chief policy director, a position she has held since February 2011. As Deputy Director-General, Ms Hall will lead the CBI's policy development and lobbying work, including in the run up to the 2015 general election. Ms Hall will also be responsible for the CBI’s work internationally and for chairing the CBI management board. She takes over the Deputy Director-General position from Dr Neil Bentley.

Commenting on her new role as Deputy Director-General, Ms Hall said:

“I’m delighted to be the new Deputy Director-General at the CBI, particularly at such an important time for British business.

“The recovery is on track but there are a number of political risks on the horizon, including the future of the EU, the Scottish referendum and the general election next year.

“My job will be to help businesses to navigate these, and other, challenges - driving and developing policies that enable firms to create growth that benefits everyone. It will be a real privilege to work closely with CBI member companies to achieve this.”

John Cridland, CBI Director-General, said:

“I can’t think of a better person than Katja to be my new number two.

“Katja has excelled as the CBI’s Chief Policy Director, developing significant new policy on Europe and infrastructure, and representing the CBI with government and business leaders at home and abroad. This promotion to Deputy Director-General is thoroughly deserved.

“In her new role, Katja will continue to lead the CBI’s policy development, as well as managing the organisation’s international activity.

“Katja succeeds Dr Neil Bentley, who was a fantastic advocate for business, and the whole CBI wishes him every success for the future.”

In addition to her recent role as Chief Policy Director, Ms Hall previously held the position of Director of Employment at the CBI. Ms Hall has led CBI campaigns on Britain’s role in the EU, medium-sized businesses, infrastructure, skills and education, improving gender diversity on UK corporate boards, modernising strike laws and reforming public sector pensions.

Ms Hall sits on the Government’s Better Regulation Steering Group and the Creative Industries Council.

Prior to joining the CBI, Ms Hall worked at the BBC on employee relations and change management.

Ms Hall was born in Sweden and moved to London in 1989. She graduated in Economics and Politics from the University of York in 1995 and she has an MA in International Relations from Nottingham University. Ms Hall is married with two daughters.